My new EOS RP includes Fv mode in addition to the usual P/TV/AV/M, what does Fv do and when would you use it?
Nathalie Godden, Madeley
BRIAN SAYS… Flexible Priority (Fv) mode, was introduced with the EOS R, and is also included on the EOS M6 Mark II and your EOS RP. The key that makes it flexible is that it can work as if it is any of the other exposure modes. By default it will start with fully automatic exposure, similar to Program mode with auto ISO. By manipulating the camera controls, or using the touch screen, you can choose to determine any combination of shutter speed, aperture, ISO or exposure compensation. Any of these controls left in auto will be optimally set with intelligent auto exposure systems within the camera.
The key is to note which of the four exposure parameters is “active”, indicated by the orange icon for the main dial. Also note that any underlined values are being determined by the camera. You either tap on the LCD or turn the quick control to move the orange main dial icon to the next parameter. Additionally the cross keys on your camera are configured to reset either the currently active value or all four parameters to automatic camera control.
I think Fv suits new photographers learning to move from Program mode to controlling depth of field with aperture or movement with shutter speed. As soon as you choose the aperture the camera effectively operates as if it was in Av mode, but a press of the cross keys returns to program. Fv also works for photographers experimenting with manual instead of their usual Av or Tv mode.
If you control shutter speed and aperture values the camera works similar to manual mode, but you might find it challenging to have to check what parameter is being changed. Manual mode normally provides dedicated controls with the main dial for shutter speed and quick control dial for aperture.